Is there a definitive book or video for learning macro?

spec68 wrote:

c h u n k wrote:

So where are you with general photography knowledge? Do you have a thorough grasp on the exposure triangle? What gear are you using. Dragonflies and butterflies would use different lenses than bees a lot of the time - just because bees are much smaller.

I've shot birds and other larger wildlife for years (as a hobby). My skill level in that area is good, but I'm looking to branch out a bit. I use an R5. My lens collection is decidedly for wildlife and landscape purposes - RF 100-500 , RF 15-35, but I also have the RF 100 (which is, of course, also a macro).

But like you say, butterflies would use a different lens than bees, which is not something I would have ever guessed. Also since my experience is limited to larger animals and landscape I don't have the first clue how to properly use a speedlight. In fact, I don't even own on, but realize I will need one for Macro. So, yes, a good book or video is something I'd like to explore to get a grasp of the basics. But there are tons of those, so not sure which to look at and which to avoid. Any guidance there is appreciated.

Butterflies would be similar to hummingbirds. Just using a +1 diopter or short extension tube might be all you need to get the working distance, and that would make it easier to use an on-camera TTL speedlight to freeze motion.

I'd approach the butterflies and dragonflies as if they were hummingbirds. They might be roughly the same size and working distance. It could be a lot more familiar to you.